Does excess calcium intake cause atherosclerosis? - Diet and Heart Disease

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Does excess calcium intake cause atherosclerosis? - Diet and Heart Disease

Nutrition Research Newsletter, March, 1992

In an editorial published in the International Journal of Cardiology, Dr. Seely of the University of Manchester argues that excess calcium intake is a major cause of atherosclerosis in Western countries. He contends that, contrary to recommendations established by nutrition authorities in the US and other countries, young adults need only 300-400 mg of calcium daily, and older adults need even less. A diet devoid of dairy products supplies about 300-400 mg/day of calcium. However, in Western countries, many people consume one-half liter of milk daily, adding an extra 600 mg of calcium to their diets.

The author argues that epidemiological data support the claim that calcium excess is associated with atherosclerosis. "First, the general observation can be made that, in countries where the daily calcium intake is 200-400 mg, arterial diseases are non-existent. Blood pressure does not increase with age. In countries where the daily intake is 800 mg, arterial disease is the leading cause of mortality. A more specific indicator is the strong positive correlation between consumption of milk and mortality from coronary arterial disease."

Calcium most likely exerts its harmful effect, according to this author, because excess amounts can be deposited in soft tissues, notably the aorta. Calcification of the aorta decreases its elasticity; consequences may include increased work for the heart, reduced filling of the coronary arteries, and increased blood pressure.